Arsenal Football Club News

• Nickname:Gunners
• Founded:1886
• Manager:Arsene Wenger

• Ground:Emirates
• Capacity:60,432

Gunners strike Diarra deal

01 Sep 2007 - 07:59:02

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Arsenal made a late dip into the transfer market to snap up Chelsea utility man Lassana Diarra for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old France international, who can play in either defence or midfield, has penned a long-term contract with the Gunners, having seen his first-team opportunities limited at Stamford Bridge.

Diarra joined the Blues in the summer of 2005 from Le Havre, but made only 30 first-team appearances for Jose Mourinho's side.

He told his new club's official website: "I have great respect for the manager Arsene Wenger and am attracted by the style of football that the team plays.

"Of course I am excited by what the future holds and keen to play my part in helping Arsenal fight for trophies this season and for years to come."

Wenger himself added: "Lassana is a multi-functional player, making him a great addition to our squad.

"Not only is he hard working, he has a creative edge and is comfortable playing in the middle of the pitch or at right-back."